Acculturation and identity transformation as a result of learning English as a second language in native-speaking contexts (original) (raw)
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The Acculturation Model of Second Language Acquisition: Inspecting Weaknesses and Strengths
Previous research has highlighted the significant impact of culture on learning a second language (L2). Accordingly, culture is now believed to be a major learning-affecting factor which, along with linguistic competence, facilitates the process of L2 learning. Some have proposed that being surrounded by the L2 culture gives one a better chance of learning an L2. Based on this premise, Schumann in 1978 proposed the acculturation/pidginization model as a context-sensitive model that emphasizes identification with the L2 community as the primary requirement of L2 acquisition. This study attempts to take a closer look at different aspects of this theory. The taxonomy of factors which control social distance is presented along with the different types of acculturation and the stages/steps of acculturation in an L2 environment. The article concludes with a discussion on the advantages and shortcomings of the model.
Language and Measurement of Acculturation
The present study used a randomized design, with fully bilingual Hispanic participants from the Miami area, to investigate 2 sets of research questions. First, we sought to ascertain the extent to which measures of acculturation (Hispanic and U.S. practices, values, and identifications) satisfied criteria for linguistic measurement equivalence. Second, we sought to examine whether cultural frame switching would emerge-that is, whether latent acculturation mean scores for U.S. acculturation would be higher among participants randomized to complete measures in English and whether latent acculturation mean scores for Hispanic acculturation would be higher among participants randomized to complete measures in Spanish. A sample of 722 Hispanic students from a Hispanic-serving university participated in the study. Participants were first asked to complete translation tasks to verify that they were fully bilingual. Based on ratings from 2 independent coders, 574 participants (79.5% of the sample) qualified as fully bilingual and were randomized to complete the acculturation measures in either English or Spanish. Theoretically relevant criterion measures-self-esteem, depressive symptoms, and personal identity-were also administered in the randomized language. Measurement equivalence analyses indicated that all of the acculturation measures-Hispanic and U.S. practices, values, and identifications-met criteria for configural, weak/metric, strong/scalar, and convergent validity equivalence. These findings indicate that data generated using acculturation measures can, at least under some conditions, be combined or compared across languages of administration. Few latent mean differences emerged. These results are discussed in terms of the measurement of acculturation in linguistically diverse populations.
Acculturation strategy and language experience in expert ESL speakers: An exploratory study
Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 2011
Acculturation and language proficiency have been found to be interrelated both from the perspective of second language acquisition (Schumann, 1978, 1986) and socio-psychological adaptation in cross-cultural contacts (Ward, Bochner, & Furnham, 2001). However, the predictions as to the effect of a particular strategy on success differ, with assimilation believed to create most favourable conditions for SLA and integration for general well-being. The present study explores acculturation patterns in three expert users of English as a second language, recent Polish immigrants to the UK, in relation to their language experience. The qualitative data were collected with the use of a questionnaire and analysed with respect to language experience and socioaffective factors. The analysis aimed at better understanding of the relationship between language learning in a formal context and language use in a natural setting on the one hand and the relationship between language expertise and acculturation strategy choice on the other. The results show that in spite of individual differences, expert language users tend to adopt an assimilation rather than integration acculturation strategy. This may suggest that attitudes are related to expertise in English as a second language in a more conservative way than advocated by cross-cultural approaches.
2019
This study explores the experiences of a group of English-speaking Nigerian immigrants learning German as second language in Germany in a naturalistic and unstructured environment. The main aim of the study is to determine the extent to which the social and psychological distance factors of the Schumann Acculturation Model of SLA feature in the second language learning experiences of the group. By adopting a more social psychological approach, the study illustrates the integration patterns of immigrant minorities through the application of the Schumann model. The use of the model as the framework of the study enabled me to explore how the adult immigrants overcame different barriers in order to settle into a new environment. The study helps to fill the gap in SLA research carried out in the social context and the natural environment. A case study research design was adopted for this investigation to explore the participants’ perceptions about their real-life experiences in learning ...
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Filologiya masalalari (Philology Matters), 2024
This article delves into the complex relationship between multilingualism and identity, examining its definition, prevalence, and impact on cognitive development and cultural awareness. It explores the advantages of multilingual practices in education, the formation of multilingual identities, and the influence of language on individual and collective identities. Drawing upon insights from renowned scholars, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between multilingualism and identity. In addition, the text discusses various factors such as code-switching, diglossia, language choice, and the ease of learning additional languages for bilingual individuals. It also explores the OPOL method (One Parent One Language) and the characteristics of multilingual education programs. Additionally, the article delves into how speaking different languages can lead to identity changes and highlights relevant psychological studies, experimental methods, and key terms in this field. Following that, this article provides a comprehensive examination of the dimensions of multilingualism, contributing to a deeper understanding of how it shapes personal and social identities. It acknowledges that in today’s Received: Accepted: Available online: February 20, 2024 March 22, 2024 March 25, 2024 DOI: 10.36078/987654971 21 2024 Vol. 48 No. 1 Series: LINGUISTICS globalized society, multilingualism plays a crucial role in enhancing brain flexibility and providing individuals with better opportunities. Understanding one’s identity intricacies is fundamental for comprehending others more effectively. Moreover, multicultural polyglots do not have to choose between their identities; instead, they embrace multiple cultural influences. To sum up, the article aims to explore the complex relationship between multilingualism and identity. It delves into various aspects, drawing on scholarly insights and research findings from different disciplines. The goal is to enhance our understanding of how language proficiency influences personal experiences and societal dynamics.
Literature related to the cultural adaptation of strangers to a new culture is examined. Definitions, models and cultural studies are discussed. The article concludes with an assessment of communication variables contributing to acculturation among immigrants. Communication is viewed as the major underlying process as well as an outcome of the acculturation process.
A Critical Review of the Relevant Interpretations of the Process of Acculturation
2012
Acculturation, as a very complex cultural occurrence and one of the most significant dynamic processes in culture, attracts the attention of theoreticians and researchers of various gnoseological vocations. This has over time led to a significant increase in the number of studies, debates and much research devoted to the reflection on and definition of this phenomenon. Considering the fact that there are no single determinants and widely accepted theoretical viewpoints, this paper contributes to a broader critical review of the theoretical understanding of the process of acculturation. At the beginning of this paper we would like to emphasize that the significance of cultural contacts and meeting points, and give the etymological determination of the concept of acculturation and indicate the numerous concepts which are compatible with it. The paper will pay special attention to the differences in understanding this process, which stem from various professional backgrounds (anthropol...